Lloyd Hara for King County Assessor

Why I’m Running for King County Assessor

I was saddened by the drunk-driving incident and subsequent plea by King County Assessor Scott Noble. I am just thankful no one was killed.

I am also concerned that Scott’s resignation creates an abrupt vacancy in a critical post, at a critical time.

Over the course of the last several weeks and this Memorial Day weekend, I’ve had a number of people step forward and urge me to run for King County Assessor. It has been truly humbling.

County taxpayers are hurting. Thousands have been laid off from work and are finding it hard to find a new job to pay their mortgage and taxes. Others have taken pay cuts or seen their pay dramatically reduced.

At the same time, their property values have plunged. But these new, lower property values are not reflected in their King County property taxes. Taxpayers are being taxed as if the market was still appreciating at a double-digit clip. It isn’t.

Taxpayers deserve a fair shake from the County Assessor. If there has been an across-the-board reduction in property values, local property taxes should reflect that. It is only fair.

Taxpayers count on King County government to treat them fairly and honestly. That, in part, is the paramount duty of the Assessor.

I am proud of my years as both Seattle City Treasurer and Seattle Port Commissioner. I always put the interest of taxpayers first. The same would be true if I was selected as King County Assessor.

And because I have previous experience running a public office, I am ready to lead the office from Day One. In addition, I intend to fill out my term on the Seattle Port Commission.

I look forward to meeting people across the County, answering their questions, and asking for their support to be their next King County Assessor.

Best Regards,

Lloyd Hara